Make the most of the seller’s market

If you’ve been reading my column for the last few weeks, you have probably gotten the message that we’re in a great market for real estate right now. This is one of the best seller’s markets of the last few decades, so make it count. People are making offers all over the place and it can get noisy with all the commotion. Here are some great tips to get the most bang for your buck on the home sale.

Price it right

This may come as a shock, but pricing your home too high and then having to lower it can increase the time it takes to sell it. You may think that it looks better having the price drop on it (and sometimes it does) but it’s important to get traction in the first month. Every search platform for real estate sorts by days on the market, so make sure that you get the freshest houses with each search. That means you’ll be at the top for only so long — take advantage. Price it right from the start and you’ll get more traction in those first 30 days.

Declutter

I feel like I am always telling people to declutter but, in my defense, it needs to be said. It’s by far the easiest thing to do and makes a huge difference. People don’t want to imagine themselves living in your mess.

Heck, you don’t even want to live in all that mess. So, clean it up. If you’re like me, sometimes it can get tough seeing how to bring out the best in your home. If that sounds like you, your realtor can set you up with a stager. Their only

job is to make your home look it’s best, so go for it.

Hide the pets

I know that you love Fido but that doesn’t mean everyone else will. Some people are allergic to pets and they don’t always like the scent that comes along with them. So, make sure that you hide their toys and I always suggest you get them out of the house

when people come to see it. Nothing says buy my house, like an overprotective dog growling at you. You’ll be more likely to get a restraining order than an offer.

Get good photos

It’s very important to show your best face in your photos. Anyone who has spent time in market knows how hard it can

be get people to show up at something. The biggest obstacle you will face in showing a home is getting people to show up. Pictures will help. It may be the difference between 1,000 people viewing your home and 10,000. So, hire a photographer to help. Your realtor will be able to help you find a cheap photographer.

It’s time to strike and the iron is hot. So, make sure you make your shot count. Take the time do and do it right. If you don’t know where to start, talk to your real estate agent. Working in it full time, they can help you stage, show and present your home.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Even though houses are selling well, there are some things to do to help your house sell.